Cristian Maidana and Conor Casey Love Playing with Each Other

USA TODAY Sports

In Philadelphia's last two games, a most unusual pair has developed into a partnership that could turn the team's season around.

Cristian Maidana and Conor Casey played a part in all three of Philadelphia's goals in the 3-3 draw with Vancouver at PPL Park, a result that came a week after the pair combined on one goal against Chivas USA.

Maidana has been looking for a player to finish his crosses all season, and up until two weeks ago, he was lost playing with the likes of Andrew Wenger, Danny Cruz and Antoine Hoppenot.

Since Casey, the best aerial threat on the Union roster, entered the starting lineup, the results have begun to swing in the right direction for a Philadelphia side that was desperate for results.

The Eastern Conference Playoff Race Will Be Fun to Watch

Heading into the World Cup break, the top three clubs in the Eastern Conference standings are separated by one point.

If you look further down the standings, six other teams sit within eight points of Sporting KC and D.C. United, who sit one point behind first-place New England.

Of those six teams, Philadelphia and Chicago have been the most disappointing sides during the first few months of play, but both have shown signs of promise lately.

Toronto and New York will be powered by their superstars, but they will also see key role players step up in times of need.

Columbus and Houston are two teams that are always in the mix for the playoffs, and with veterans like Michael Parkhurst, Federico Higuain and Brad Davis manning the pitch for both teams, they shouldn't be counted out either.

As for the Impact, they may not have a chance after registering just 10 points from their first 12 games.